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The 2025 Germany election has brought a significant shift in the country’s political landscape, with Friedrich Merz leading the Christian Democratic Union (CDU) to a decisive win. The CDU/CSU alliance secured 28.5% of the votes, surpassing Chancellor Olaf Scholz’s Social Democratic Party (SPD), marking a major change in leadership.
A New Era Under Friedrich Merz
Friedrich Merz, a seasoned politician and long-time member of the CDU, is set to take the reins of Germany’s government after his party emerged as the frontrunner. His victory signals a return to conservative leadership, following the SPD’s tenure under Olaf Scholz. The election results also showed a strong performance by the far-right Alternative for Germany (AfD), which secured 20.7% of the votes, according to German broadcaster ARD.
Addressing supporters on election night, Merz confidently declared, “Germany will once more be governed reliably,” emphasizing his commitment to restoring stability and growth in the country. His words, as reported by Reuters, reflect the priorities of his leadership.
Who is Friedrich Merz?
Born on November 11, 1955, in the town of Brilon, Germany, Friedrich Merz comes from a family with deep roots in law. His career in politics started early, as he joined the CDU in 1972. After studying law, he married Charlotte Merz in 1981, a fellow legal professional who is now a judge. Together, they have three children.
Merz made his mark in European politics when he was elected to the European Parliament in 1989. By 1994, he secured a seat in Germany’s federal parliament, the Bundestag, representing the Hochsauerlandkreis constituency. Over the years, he climbed the ranks of the CDU, eventually becoming the party’s parliamentary leader in 2000. However, his leadership was short-lived as Angela Merkel replaced him in 2002.
A Journey of Political Comebacks
Following a political setback in 2005, when the CDU/CSU formed a coalition government with the SPD, Merz found himself sidelined. He chose to step away from active politics in 2009 and built a successful career in law and finance.
After a decade-long hiatus, Merz re-entered the political arena in 2018 when Angela Merkel announced her retirement. Though he attempted to succeed her, he lost the bid to Annegret Kramp-Karrenbauer. Another opportunity arose in 2020 when Kramp-Karrenbauer stepped down, but once again, the party favored Armin Laschet as its leader.
However, Merz’s persistence paid off in 2021 when he re-entered parliament, despite his party’s electoral defeat. In 2022, he finally claimed the CDU’s top position, becoming its national chairman. His leadership has since focused on economic revival and stricter immigration policies, key issues that defined his campaign.
Challenges and Opportunities: Forming a Coalition Government
While Merz’s victory in the 2025 Germany election is significant, his biggest challenge now is forming a coalition government. Securing enough support to lead effectively will be a crucial test for his leadership. His policies on economic recovery and immigration have been central to his campaign, and the coming weeks will determine how he navigates coalition talks to solidify his position as Germany’s next leader.
With Germany entering a new political chapter, all eyes are on Friedrich Merz as he prepares to shape the country’s future. His journey from a sidelined politician to the nation’s potential chancellor is a testament to resilience and determination.
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